While Cyril and his apprentices waved a final goodbye, Barclay also asked her, “What did Cyril say to you?”

“He apologized for giving up on me as a student. He said that if he’d been a better teacher, he would’ve realized why I was struggling instead of punishing me for it. And he said that he’s glad that I’ve found my footing now.”

“How uncharacteristically thoughtful of him,” Runa spoke. When Viola looked embarrassed, Runa said, “Sorry, was I not supposed to eavesdrop?”

“No, it’s fine. And I think… I think I’m going to write to my father. I understand why he was worried now, because of everything that happened with Keyes. But I want to tell him that I’m doing fine. That I’m doing really well, actually.”

Runa nodded. “That is definitely what Leopold cares about most.”

“But if they’re returning to the Mountains, where are we going?” Barclay asked.

“We’ll be staying here for the time being. Hasu was quite right—after all the damage to the islands, the Sea needs help rebuilding. And staying in one Wilderland will give you three the time you need to train.”

“We’re staying here?” Viola said, sounding disappointed. “I’m not sure I can drink any more milk.”

Barclay grinned, peering around the happy mayhem of the party. He didn’t think staying at the Sea sounded so bad.

“It’s already decided, I’m afraid. But before we begin discussing training or rebuilding, you should know that you’re all being punished until Midsummer. You left in the middle of a crisis, telling no one, with one very irresponsible adult, and nearly got yourselves killed for it. And Tadg,” Runa seethed, “slaying Lochmordra? What would I have done if something happened to you? Next time you have the urge to spar someone who will knock you flat on your face, Klava and I will happily do it for you.”

Tadg perked up. “Really?”

“No, obviously not. I promised Conley I’d watch out for you, not break all your bones.” Then Runa’s face softened. “But I’m proud of you. Especially you, Barclay. You figured out what no one else could have. It goes to show that there is just as much to learn from the Elsewheres as there is in the Wilderlands.”

Barclay beamed.

“Also, you’ll each be working part-time fishing seaweed until you pay Ulick back for his boat.”

The three of them groaned.

“But that’ll take the whole Summer!” Tadg said.

Runa shrugged. “Longer, probably. So you better get to work, then, if you intend to still have any time to train in the next year. You wouldn’t want to fall behind Cyril’s students, would you?”

After such a taunt, the three apprentices barely lingered to enjoy the party. They grabbed as many sweet cakes as they could carry, then took off running toward the docks.